Joanna James
Although most visit the paradise island once known as Ceylon for its stunning beaches and national parks, a getaway to the country can also include an array of memorable cultural experiences. Here's a rundown of 8 unique and authentically Sri Lankan adventures every traveller should enjoy during a trip to the country.
Ayurveda was the main healing modality used in Sri Lanka for centuries before colonization and the plant-based wisdom of this ancient practice is now accessible to spagoers. While those with a chronic illness could spend a week or more treating their particular ailment at a local Ayurvedic hospital or resort, others can simply sign up for a spa day at an Ayurvedic healing facility. Using herbal oils and massages steeped in the Ayurvedic tradition, you can indulge in a full day of pampering or relax with an oil-infused head massage or a cleansing facial.
While there are a great many culinary schools dotting the island, there's no better way to learn the basics of Sri Lankan cuisine than with a local family. Home cooks around the coast offer travellers cooking lessons which usually involve a trip to a local market to buy ingredients and the chance to enjoy a traditional rice and curry meal at the end of the program.
As a national obsession, a trip to Sri Lanka would not be complete without attending a local cricket match. Although you can time your visit to coincide with an international cricket tournament taking place on the isand, there are plenty of inter-club and inter-school cricket competitions travellers can easily catch during most months of the year.
Tucked away in the central hills are the tea factories that produce the country's favourite beverage and most profitable export. With colonial-era tea estates and factories opening their doors to visitors, a guided tour offers holidaymakers the chance to understand the complex processes that goes into creating a cup of exquisite Ceylon Tea.
Those who are visiting Sri Lanka during the Esala period, which falls between July and August, can drive up to the hill capital Kandy to witness the island's grandest cultural procession. With a centuries-old history, this iconic parade full of folk dancers, musicians, performers and bejewelled tuskers is often regarded as the best reason to head to the country during the off-season.
As the focus of nearly all Sri Lanka cultural tours organized by local tour operators including Walkers Tours, a deep dive into the country's ancient kingdoms is essential for visiting history buffs. Concentrated around Sigiriya, Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, the Cultural Triangle is home to some of Sri Lanka's most prized UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
While this particular method of harvesting toddy has diminished over the decades, witnessing a toddy-tapper at his daily task can be a fascinating experience. Climbing up coconut trees without the safety measures or the tools required for a smooth ascent, the skill and agility of these athletic toddy tappers will amaze anyone even if they're not a fan of Raa, the local alcoholic beverage made using toddy.
Learning the fine art of Batik with a local artisan can be the opportunity of a lifetime for those with a passion for crafts.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
